Time after time, employers cite “the ability to think critically” as a top skill they seek when hiring college graduates. As a college educated person, it is assumed that you have developed your skills as a critical thinker and problem solver. To compete in today’s global workplace; graduates are expected to think at a higher level. UNC Charlotte distance education programs allow you to complete your undergraduate or graduate degree programs while challenging you to strengthen your critical thinking and writing skills.

But what is “critical thinking” and how do you do it?

Critical thinking is the ability to think for yourself and to reliably and responsibly make the decisions that affect your life. According to the National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking, critical reading, writing, speaking and listening are academically essential modes of learning. In life you will be bombarded with a lot of information. How do you decide what to believe? Do you know the difference between poor quality and good quality thinking?

Do you:

Ask questions, challenge assumptions and solve real issues?

Do you just learn by memorizing information given to you or are you engaged in deeper learning?